What type of environment do deathwatch beetles prefer for infestation?

Deathwatch beetles are known to favor poorly ventilated moist timbers for infestation. This preference is closely tied to their lifecycle and the conditions necessary for their larvae to thrive. The larvae require a moist environment to feed on wood, as moisture facilitates the breakdown of lignin and cellulose in the wood, making it easier for them to consume.

Additionally, areas that are poorly ventilated tend to retain moisture, creating an ideal habitat for these beetles, which are less likely to thrive in drier or well-ventilated spaces. In contrast, dry, open spaces and subterranean habitats do not provide the damp conditions essential for their development. Therefore, poorly ventilated moist timbers create the perfect conditions for deathwatch beetles to infest and reproduce.